Barbara Nobler jersey dress available from Paradiso, TCB.
Running short on gift ideas? Want something original, impressive, inspired or delicious – or an item that meets all four of these lofty criteria? Then think local – local talent, local produce, local outlets.
There’s a special pleasure in buying an original item that’s made locally – be it jewellery, artwork, furniture or gourmet food. Not only will you be buying quality goods, you’ll very likely be buying them directly from the person (or people) who made them, which makes the purchase all that more personal and satisfying. Plus, you’ll know that what you’re getting is a dinky-di original.
Home-grown talent, luscious local produce and goods abound in Brisbane – we’ve listed a few of our favourites here. Happy (local) shopping!
(m)art
If you're looking for a unique, quality, designer-made wearable piece or object, visit (m)art (formerly known as CQ Store, Craft Queensland’s Valley shopfront in Brunswick Street), which features an evolving range of products by Queensland and Australian designer-makers.
TCB
The Valley’s new urban shopping Mecca, TCB houses Brisbane’s hottest young designers under one roof. Revel in Juli Grbac’s feminine dresses, George Wu’s couture gowns or Gail Sorronda’s classic black-and-white signature pieces. Guys are also catered for with stylish menswear from Check and Subfusco.
Ari Jewellery
Contemporary jeweller Ari Athans describes her work as “devastatingly simple with a post modern twist”. Her gallery/workshop, Ari Jewellery, located in the heart of New Farm, is hallowed jewellery ground. The long, narrow, white space displays an evolving range of limited-edition neckpieces, earrings and rings – or you can have a piece custom-made. Ari works primarily with stone and precious metal with a strong preference for unusual gemstone cuts and raw geologic samples such as basalt, emerald crystals and quartz crystals.
Paula Hall Designs
Simply irresistible. Catering for women of all ages, Paula Hall’s divine jewellery covers the style spectrum with conservative items for those who desire a little dazzle to flamboyant pieces for more adventurous statement-making types. Each piece – featuring sparkling Swarovski crystals, fresh water pearls, mother of pearl, delicate ribbons or glass beads – is handcrafted at Paula’s Brisbane studio, where she creates a new range of bridal and classic pieces at least four times a year. Quality, quirky attention to detail and unusual colour combinations are the hallmarks of all Paula Hall Designs.
Cotton & Co.
In a glass-fronted Ascot shop brimming with all things bright, beady and beautiful, young jewellery designer Michael Cotton is doing a roaring trade. Much of jewellery store’s enticing collection is sourced from overseas, but Michael can also tailor-make jewellery to match any outfit. So if you’re looking for quality, style, uniqueness and affordability, head to Cotton & Co.
Ravishing Art
The name says it all. Stocked with works by up-and-coming local artists – paintings, handmade jewellery and hand-painted ceramics – Ravishing Art, in Norman Park, is an enticing outlet for local talent. If you don’t see what you want, have it created! Resident artist Ralph Muller can create a portrait of someone or something you love – be it your new-born babe, new-found love or the family’s beloved Fido.
Farm Fresh Central
From Queensland farmers to Queensland families: online provider Farm Fresh Central delivers the finest local foods including beef, lamb, organic chicken, honey, eggs and condiments directly to your home. Enjoy the best of what Queensland’s farmers have to offer including freshly baked bread, just-carved meats, premium handmade cheeses, crisp vegetables and delicious fruits. In a word: yum.
Angelo’s Fresh Pasta Products
Looking for authentic Italian in downtown Brisbane? You can act global – but still buy local – by visiting Angelo’s Fresh Pasta Products in the Valley and trying their famous range. Take home a selection of their fresh, homemade pastas, lasagnes and sauces and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a traditional kitchen in the heart of Italy. Among the many delicious dry and frozen products are on offer, be sure to try the much-loved ricotta-and-spinach-filled agnolotti.
Brisbane’s Markets
One of the best places to find fabulous locally made items is at one of the many markets in Brisbane. Many retail success stories get their start at the grass-roots market level, so get in early and buy from emergent designers, artists and crafts people before they hit the big time (with prices to match!).
Miss Spelt
For people who are wheat sensitive, Brisbane baker Miss Spelt has a yummy and digestion-friendly solution: all her baked goodies – cakes, biscuits and slices – are made from 100% spelt flour. Favourites include caramel shortbread crumble, walnut treacle slice, vanilla melting moments, banana, vanilla and mascarpone cake, and honey and pistachio white chocolate slice. To find a stockist near you phone 0420 415 129.
By Pip, from the ourbrisbane.com team
What's your favourite local gift shop and why? Add your comments below.
